James Edward Kunkle, age 74, of Tryon, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. James was born on June 5, 1951, in Connellsville, Pennsylvania, to the late Verna and Floyd Kunkle, Sr.

James married his first wife, Linda Kotsch Kunkle, in 1968, and together they made their home in Dade City, Florida, where they lived until her passing in 1999. In 2000, he married Karen Foley Kunkle, and they settled in Tampa, Florida. Upon retirement, they moved to Tryon, North Carolina, in 2023.

James had a deep love for the outdoors. He especially enjoyed hunting with his brother Floyd and his sons whenever he had the opportunity. He also loved fishing with anyone willing to join him and cherished the many cruises he took with his wife, brother, and sister-in-law.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karen Foley Kunkle; his children: Katrina Kunkle McCoy of Henderson, Tennessee; Karen Kunkle Odom of Enid, Oklahoma; Steve Kunkle of Ridge Manor, Florida; Daniel Kunkle (Rebecca) of Bushnell, Florida; Debra Adams of Forest City, North Carolina; and Jay Wynkoop (Kathryn) of Erie, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by 19 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; his brother, Floyd Kunkle (Virginia) of Rutherfordton, North Carolina; and his beloved dog, Buster.

James was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Kunkle (January 7, 1999); his parents; and his son, James Edward Kunkle, Jr. (May 23,1969- September 19, 1969).

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Lifestyle Church of God, 21245 Sanderson Road, Dade City, Florida 33523, with a reception to follow.

All arrangements have been entrusted to Crowe’s Mortuary and Crematory in Rutherfordton, North Carolina, and Hodges Family Funeral Home in Dade City, Florida.